Students rally with hurricane relief effort

HUMBLE ISD

Published 5:00 am, Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Homecoming has a whole new meaning this year for many, and students in Humble school district will have an opportunity to open a few doors for families returning home across the greater Gulf Coast area, as well as those displaced in their own communities.

The Journey Home hurricane relief effort lasts through Nov. 7. Students, faculty and community members who attend the homecoming games of both Atascocita and Humble high schools will be able to make a donation as they enter Turner Stadium. Atascocita’s game is scheduled for Oct. 31, and Humble’s is set for Nov. 7, respectively.

Also, a collection will be taken up in the stadium’s stands after each school’s homecoming halftime activities are completed. Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse is helping underwrite the effort by providing collection containers for both homecoming events.

Journalism students and student publication staff members at seven secondary schools in are collaborating in this effort. Atascocita and Humble high school students, who are normally rivals, have now united for a cause, putting school colors aside to concentrate on community pride.

“Many of us sat in front of our televisions the first weeks after Ike hit and felt totally helpless as we were moved by the images and stories of neighbors in area cities,” said Atascocita High journalism teacher Guy Anderson said. “This was a time that offered many opportunities for neighbors to help one another. Young people care deeply about their communities and want to help ... here’s their chance to get involved.”

Although both high schools involved are located in the Humble/Atascocita areas of the district, Kingwood Middle School journalism students, the campus-at-large, faculty and parents also helped out in the effort.

Guided by journalism sponsor Janet Dugart, the middle school campus raised close to $450 dollars through a variety of fundraising measures.

“It was just pocket change, but it felt good to give what little I had,” said Brian Currie, Kingwood Middle school student.

Those wishing to make a donation can do so by sending a check or money order to AHS-Journey Home, 13300 Will Clayton Pkwy., Humble, Texas, 77346.

Any student organization or club wanting to join in the effort can contact their school’s journalism department chairperson for more information.

Community members or corporate partners that may wish to participate in the student-led community service project are encouraged to contact event coordinator, Guy Anderson by e-mail at guy.anderson@humble.k12.tx.us.